Can aspirin prevent another heart attack in women whove already had one?
Women who have already had a heart attack, stroke, or undergone angioplasty or bypass surgery should take daily aspirin (75-325 mg).7, 13 Aspirin reduces the chances of further heart problems by 25%.14 Although aspirin sometimes works as a painkiller, it does not reduce chest pain ( angina). It does reduce the risk of dying for people who suffer from angina.15 One small study suggested that aspirin may not be as effective in women with angina compared with men. The women taking aspirin were more likely to suffer episodes of chest pain than men.16 If I’m at risk for heart disease, should I take aspirin? What about women who have not had a heart attack or stroke — should they take a daily aspirin? The most recent guidelines for the prevention of cardiovascular disease in women recommend daily aspirin (75-162 mg) for women at high-risk for coronary artery disease.17 High risk is defined as a greater than 20% risk of developing heart disease within 10 years. Women at intermediate risk (10%
